When someone is said to be "paying one's dues," it means that they are earning their way through a particular situation or industry. There are many synonyms for this phrase, each with its own connotations. For example, "climbing the ladder" suggests that the person is working their way up through the ranks, while "putting in the work" implies that the person is putting in the effort necessary to succeed. "Earning your stripes" suggests that the person is gaining experience and credibility, and "doing your time" implies that the person is enduring a difficult situation with the expectation of a payoff in the future. Ultimately, all of these phrases represent the idea that hard work and perseverance are necessary for success.
